School Bus safety is on everyone’s mind as the new school year is underway, and all over Michiana communities are stepping up their efforts to keep kids safe.

Governor Eric Holcomb approved thousands of dollars to dozens of police departments in the state to help increase patrols around bus stops.

WSBT reports that Mishawaka, for example, received $25,000 to cover overtime costs for officers patrolling near school zones — money that will be shared with several local police departments. There will also be an increase in fines and penalties for traffic violators, and a zero-tolerance policy for violations near buses.

A bus safety campaign debuted this week in Rochester with the beginning of the school year, including three billboards honoring the three children who were killed at their bus stop last year.